Many Disciplines. One Patient.

In the spirit of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a primary goal of Essential Health Acupuncture is to provide our patients with a broader understanding of health and more lasting sense of well-being. Instead of a disease-centered focus, Traditional Chinese Medicine applies a patient-centered approach that addresses the whole person rather than simply his/her symptoms.

Essential Health Acupuncture combines the disciplines of modern science with the wisdom of ancient healing and takes advantage of the knowledge of several disciplines including, acupunture, tui na (Chinese body work), cupping therapy, diet/nutrition education, physical, mental and emotional health, and Chinese herbology. Other medical modalities that are being utilized are also taken into account to provide the utmost care for the individual. This allows patient and provider to work together to develop an integrated diagnostic and therapeutic plan that will best address the whole patient.

Ali Sherbiny, M.Ac.O.M., L.Ac. is a nationally certified and Virginia Board of Medicine-licensed acupuncturist and herbalist with a private practice in Arlington, Virginia.

He received his Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Arizona School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ASOM).

His experience includes integrative treatment, community acupuncture, as well as private practice. His practice specializes in the treatment of pain, insomnia, chronic fatigue, and stress-related effects on the body and combines acupuncture with bodywork (Tui Na massage) and cupping to achieve his clinical results.

His continuing education coursework has included study of the Tung family lineage style of acupuncture with Richard Tan, Brad Whisnant, and Henry McCann and food medicine (Chinese & Western Nutrition) with Dr. Ardeschir Mehrabani, NMD, Noemi Quintanar, NMD, RM, MT, and Dr. Marlene Merritt, LAc, DOM, MS Nutrition. Most recently he studied with Thea Elijah, LAc, former director of the Chinese Herbal Studies Program at TAI Sophia Institute, for a deeper understanding and embodiment of 5-element medicine.

Prior to his graduate studies at ASOM, he studied organic farming as an apprentice under a master gardener and worked in organic food sales with Green Star Farms in Blacksburg, VA.

Ali received his B.A. in Sociology from Virginia Tech. He continues to see social and lineage implications to health and healing and loves working with people who have the aspiration to break free from negative psycho-emotional patterns.

Effective Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine with a gentle touch--at the Ruah Center

We offer private and community acupuncture, functional and integrative medicine, nutrition and massage

“I feel so privileged to be in the position, for the rest of my life, to help others. The best part of my job is being able to help people truly heal. Most people, to some degree, are in some level of pain, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional. My goal as a provider is not only to treat symptoms, but more importantly to treat the root causes of those symptoms to help people truly be well and live vibrantly. That’s what wellness is, and that’s what I love to help others achieve.”

When Melinda is not treating patients, you will most likely find her in the ocean with her family on the Seacoast of NH. Melinda is an avid surfer (yes, even during the New England winters!), certified yoga teacher, and lifelong athlete. She possesses an innate appreciation of the importance of developing and maintaining a strong and healthy body and mind.

As a licensed Acupuncturist, Melinda blends the best of both eastern and western medicine. In addition to her education and clinical experience, Melinda spent over a decade training doctors in medical devices and robotic surgical technology. As a result, she has an excellent foundation and appreciation for western medicine, while recognizing the importance of comprehensive, integrative care for patients. Compelled by helping others, she made the decision to leave her career and become a healthcare provider herself. Melinda chose the field of Acupuncture because it gives her the unique opportunity to provide personalized, holistic, patient-centered care.

Melinda Ferreira is a nationally board-certified Diplomate of Acupuncture, and is licensed to practice in the state of NH. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Masters Degree in Acupuncture from the New England School of Acupuncture at MCPHS University. During her 3 years of training, she completed clinical internships at Massachusetts General Hospital, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, Cambridge Health Alliance, MCPHS University, and Element Care Senior Clinic. She is currently completing her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine.